FeverfewFeverfew is used to treat most of the same disorders
treated by aspirin, including migraine headaches, fever, and arthritis.
It is rich in a group of chemicals called sesquiterpene lactones. These
compounds have been have been found to decrease the rate of platelet
aggregation (blood clotting), inhibit histamine release from immune
cells, and have even been found to have mild sedative properties. Feverfew's
most popular use is as a headache reliever. This effect is most likely
due to the herb's blood clot inhibiting action (platelet aggregation
is thought to play a role in some forms of migraine) and the anti-inflammatory
and antihistamine (histamines create inflammation and constrict blood
vessels) properties of the prostaglandins. Some have found feverfew
to be effective in treating high blood pressure, digestive disorders
(acting much like its close relative, chamomile, in calming the smooth
muscles of the digestive tract), and in relieving menstrual cramps.
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